A Ghost Story (2017): A Haunting Exploration of Grief and Time
David Lowery’s A Ghost Story isn’t your typical ghost story. It’s a meditative, visually stunning film that explores grief, loss, and the passage of time in a profoundly moving way. Casey Affleck plays a ghost who remains tethered to his home after a tragic accident, silently observing his wife (Rooney Mara) as she navigates her life without him. The film’s slow pace and unconventional storytelling are initially jarring, but ultimately reward the patient viewer with a deeply affecting experience. The square aspect ratio and haunting score amplify the feeling of isolation and the vastness of time, making A Ghost Story a truly unforgettable and unforgettable cinematic experience.
Moonlight (2016): A Coming-of-Age Story of Identity and Self-Discovery
Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight is a breathtakingly beautiful and emotionally resonant film that follows the life of Chiron, a young Black gay man growing up in a tough Miami neighborhood. Divided into three chapters, each representing a different stage of Chiron’s life, the film explores themes of identity, masculinity, sexuality, and the search for belonging. The stunning cinematography, evocative score, and powerful performances from the cast, particularly Trevante Rhodes, André Holland, and Ashton Sanders, make Moonlight a must-see for anyone interested in character-driven storytelling and the complexities of the human experience. Its nuanced portrayal of Black masculinity and queer identity continues to resonate deeply.
The Farewell (2019): A Heartfelt Family Drama Exploring Cultural Differences
Lulu Wang’s The Farewell is a poignant and humorous family drama that centers around a Chinese-American family who travels to China to see their terminally ill grandmother. Knowing that their grandmother is unaware of her diagnosis, the family decides to stage a wedding as a pretense for their visit. The film skillfully balances humor and heartbreak, offering a nuanced exploration of family dynamics, cultural differences, and the complexities of navigating grief and loss. Awkwafina delivers a stellar performance as Billi, a granddaughter struggling to connect with her family and her cultural heritage. The film’s honesty and emotional depth are truly captivating.
Manchester by the Sea (2016): A Raw and Unflinching Look at Grief and Responsibility
Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester by the Sea is a devastatingly realistic portrayal of grief and the weight of responsibility. Casey Affleck gives a career-defining performance as Lee Chandler, a man grappling with immense personal loss and forced to confront his past when he becomes the guardian of his nephew. The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of life, exploring themes of guilt, regret, and the enduring power of trauma. It’s a challenging but ultimately rewarding watch, offering a profound meditation on the human condition.
Lady Bird (2017): A Coming-of-Age Story Filled with Heart and Humor
Greta Gerwig’s directorial debut, Lady Bird, is a vibrant and relatable coming-of-age story that captures the messy and often hilarious experience of navigating adolescence. Saoirse Ronan delivers a captivating performance as Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson, a rebellious teenager who clashes with her mother (Laurie Metcalf) while trying to find her place in the world. The film’s sharp writing, witty dialogue, and excellent performances make it both funny and deeply moving. Lady Bird is a celebration of teenage angst and the bittersweet transition into adulthood.
Call Me by Your Name (2017): A Sublime Exploration of First Love and Summer Romance
Luca Guadagnino’s Call Me by Your Name is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that explores the intensity of first love. Set in the Italian countryside, the film follows the passionate relationship between a 17-year-old boy (Timothée Chalamet) and an older graduate student (Armie Hammer). The film’s breathtaking scenery, evocative score, and intimate performances create an unforgettable cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. It’s a poignant and beautifully crafted film that explores themes of longing, desire, and the fleeting nature of time.
Hereditary (2018): A Masterclass in Psychological Horror
Ari Aster’s Hereditary is a chilling and deeply unsettling psychological horror film that explores the devastating consequences of family secrets and inherited trauma. Toni Collette delivers an Oscar-worthy performance as Annie Graham, a mother struggling to cope with the death of her secretive mother. The film’s slow burn approach builds suspense masterfully, culminating in a terrifying and emotionally draining climax. Hereditary is not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate truly terrifying and psychologically complex horror, it’s a must-see. Please click here to learn about indie films.
